Effortless Pumpkin Curry

Section: Vegan & Plant-Based Recipes: Vibrant, Satisfying Meals Without Animal Products

Pumpkin puree turns super creamy in this cozy meal, full of colorful veggies and gentle spices. Everything cooks together in one pot, so it's fast, plant-based, and perfect if you need dinner on the table quick. Safe for gluten-free folks, too!

iamcooker.com
Sofia Pitt sofia
Most recent update: Mon, 19 May 2025 16:45:42 GMT
Creamy curry in a bowl with chunks of veggies, lots of cilantro, and a scoop of rice on the side. Save
Creamy curry in a bowl with chunks of veggies, lots of cilantro, and a scoop of rice on the side. | iamcooker.com

Dreamy Indian Pumpkin Curry

Gotta tell ya about this awesome Indian-style pumpkin curry. It’s super cozy and has pumpkin that just melts in your mouth with a wild mix of spices. The whole thing comes together in one pot — go stovetop or Instant Pot, whatever you like. It hits the spot on chilly days when you want something extra hearty.

Why You’ll Love This

This isn’t your usual curry, friends. It’s got lots of good stuff like fresh veggies and chickpeas for protein, plus it’s totally vegan and free of gluten. Whether you're setting up meals for the week or need dinner fast, this one never lets you down.

All You’ll Need

  • Main Hero: Two cups of pumpkin puree — canned or fresh works fine.
  • Saucy Base: One cup of tomato sauce or passata.
  • Extra Liquid: Two cups of low-salt veggie broth.
  • Cream Factor: One cup of coconut milk, full-fat is best.
  • Spices: Salt, pepper, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and a bit of paprika.
  • Fresh Vibes: Onion, garlic, and a hit of fresh ginger.
  • Veggie Boost: Kale, carrot, and a bell pepper for color.
  • Cooking Stuff: Just a spoonful of oil.
  • Fun Extras: Try adding chickpeas, a dash of cinnamon, or some coconut if you want.
A bowl of bold, creamy pumpkin curry loaded with cilantro and served with a spoon on the side.
A bowl of bold, creamy pumpkin curry loaded with cilantro and served with a spoon on the side. | iamcooker.com

Whip Up Your Curry

Final Step
Toss in the kale at the end, let it soften, and tweak those seasonings if ya want.
Let It Bubble
Simmer everything for about 10 minutes so it all gets soft. Add chickpeas now if you’re into them.
Add Everything In
Mix in all the spices, then pour in your pumpkin, coconut milk, and liquids.
Start Cooking
Pop your oil in a pot, sauté onions, peppers, and carrots until they’re soft, toss in the garlic and ginger.
Get Prepped
Chop up the veggies, mince the garlic, grate some ginger, and cube the pumpkin if using fresh.

Serving Up Curry

It’s awesome over fluffy basmati rice with warm naan alongside. Want a lighter bowl? Go with cauliflower rice. Top it with lime juice, cilantro, and roasted pumpkin seeds for extra crunch.

Handy Tips

Let your spices toast first, you won’t regret it for the added flavor. Play around with how much broth you add to make it as thick or soupy as you want. If you like a heartier dish, leave some chunks of pumpkin. Tossing in chickpeas or some lentils will keep you full longer.

Leftovers That Rock

This curry actually gets tastier the next day. Stash leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months. When you heat it back up, add a bit of broth or extra coconut milk to keep it creamy.

A creamy pumpkin-veggie curry with big chunks and bright peas next to fluffy rice, all topped with cilantro and spices for pop.
A creamy pumpkin-veggie curry with big chunks and bright peas next to fluffy rice, all topped with cilantro and spices for pop. | iamcooker.com

Recipe Q&A

→ Is canned pumpkin fine to use?

Absolutely! Both homemade and canned pumpkin work. If it’s thick, pour in more broth to get it just right.

→ What's a good coconut milk swap?

Try oat cream or soy cream for a creamy texture if coconut isn't your thing—any dairy-free option is fair game.

→ How do I add more protein?

Chickpeas go great here. Tofu cubes tossed in at the end are tasty, too.

→ Which leafy greens fit best?

Stick some spinach or kale in at the end to keep them bright and full of goodness.

→ Want it with more heat?

Crank up the spice with curry powder, sliced chili, or just toss in some pepper flakes.

Effortless Pumpkin Curry

Smooth pumpkin and veggies mingle with gentle spices in this Indian-style dish. It's naturally gluten-free and all plant-based.

Prep Duration
13 min
Cooking Period
12 min
Entire Time Required
25 min
Sofia Pitt: sofia

Type: Plant Power

Difficulty: Beginner

Regional Style: Indian-Style

Output: 4 Portions (1 pot)

Dietary Attributes: Low-Carbohydrate, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Needed Ingredients

01 1 medium onion (110g), diced.
02 3/4 cup bell pepper (80g), sliced.
03 1 cup carrots (150g), diced.
04 1/2 tablespoon water or oil.
05 2-inch piece fresh ginger, finely chopped.
06 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped.
07 1/2 tablespoon curry mix.
08 1 teaspoon ground cumin.
09 3/4 teaspoon turmeric powder.
10 1/2 teaspoon paprika with a smoky flavor.
11 3/4 teaspoon salt.
12 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
13 1/2 cup tomato puree (passata).
14 2 cups of pumpkin puree.
15 Between 1/2 and 1 cup veggie broth.
16 3/4 cup canned coconut milk.
17 6-8 chopped kale leaves.
18 Cilantro or parsley as fresh toppings.
19 Juice of lime.
20 Pre-cooked rice.

Preparation Steps

Step 01

Warm up the water or oil in a large pan. Toss in the onion, carrots, and bell peppers to cook for 4-5 mins. Stir in garlic and ginger, then cook another 60 seconds.

Step 02

Throw in all the spices, the tomato passata, pumpkin puree, veggie broth, and coconut milk.

Step 03

Let everything gently bubble. Cook until the veggies are soft, about 5-8 mins. Toss the kale in at the end, just for 1-2 mins.

Step 04

Taste and adjust flavors if needed. Add cooked chickpeas if you want. Serve with rice, and sprinkle with herbs or a little lime juice.

Supplementary Details

  1. Add broth gradually, depending on how thick your pumpkin mix is. Both homemade and store pumpkin puree work fine. Coconut milk can be replaced by oat or almond cream. All done in 25 minutes.

Necessary Tools

  • A big cooking pan.
  • Chopping board.
  • Sharp knife.
  • Measuring spoons and cups.

Allergen Advisory

Review each item for allergens. Consult a medical expert if unsure.
  • Safe for anyone (vegan and gluten-free).

Nutrient Breakdown (per serving)

This information is provided for reference and should not replace consultation with a health professional.
  • Caloric Value: 200
  • Total Fat: 12 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 24 g
  • Proteins: 4 g